Early Morning: After breakfast the Group will depart for Cape Coast. Visit the Riverside for the Last Bath. Our First stop is Assin Manso Slave Ancestral River where the Slaves had their last bath before moving them to Cape Coast and Elmina castles for final shipment. At Assin Manso, you will be told the history and walk through the Ancestral path to see the slave river where tourists will have opportunity to pray to their Ancestors.  

• Midday: Tour Cape Coast Castle with a moment of reflection. First stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cape Coast Castle. Experience a poignant walk through history as you explore the castle’s dungeons and the infamous ‘Door of No Return. 

The Group will have dinner at a local restaurant near the Elmina Castles. 

 • Afternoon: The Group will complete Hotel check-in and relaxation. 

 • Evening: Group Dinner at a local restaurant.

Morning: Breakfast at the hotel, then visit Elmina Castle. Elmina Castle is a white-washed Medieval Castle on the coast of Ghana. It was the first – and for many centuries – the largest, European building constructed in tropical Africa. Yet its grandeur, as well as its picturesque surroundings with blue skies, sandy beaches, and tropical palms, disguise a dark history – Elmina Castle was the last place that thousands of African slaves would ever see of their homeland. Many horrors transpired within the walls of the fortress, which have never been erased by time. 

 • Midday: Renaming ceremony near Elmina. A unique opportunity to reconnect and reunite with your culture, roots and bloodline. You will receive a traditional African Name, which will be given to you according to the day of the week you are born, and become a member of an African village and enjoy the village life such as clay pottery making, participate in a traditional cultural performances that will be displayed to welcome you into the community by the locals. This experience is for the descendants only, as it is a special pilgrimage for special healing process for us!  

• Afternoon: Lunch near Elmina Castle to eat traditional Ghanian food.  Visit Kakum National Park for the Canopy Walkway. This enchanting park is known for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and most notably, the exhilarating Canopy Walk. Offering a unique and breathtaking experience, the Canopy Walk allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of the forest while walking through the treetops. 

 • Evening: Return to Accra and check into Hotel. Freshen up and relax prior to scheduled Group Dinner

Morning: Group will have a late start today. The Group will participate in a local volunteer program Supporting one of two options: 

1. Supporting Dialysis Patients: Your group will have the opportunity to volunteer at a **local Dialysis Center*. Dialysis patients often face emotional and physical challenges, and your presence can make a significant difference. You might consider giving rides to and from the dialysis center, preparing kidney-friendly meals, or simply spending time with patients during their treatments. Your compassion and support can brighten their day and provide much-needed companionship. 

2. Engaging with Local Schools*: Another option is to participate in a local school program. Schools are at the heart of our communities, and there are various ways you can contribute. You could assist with tutoring, mentorship, after-school programs, or organizing educational events. By supporting local schools, you'll be helping students thrive academically and personally.  

Remember that volunteering not only benefits those you serve but also enriches your own life. It's an opportunity to connect with others, learn new skills, and create lasting memories. Your group's commitment to making a difference is commendable! 😊 

 If you'd like more specific details or have any other questions, feel free to ask!  Approximately 10:00 a.m. the Group will attend a cooking class with a Ghanaian chef, focusing on traditional dishes like Fufu. The Group will prepare a Brunch for 10-15 local under-privileged community members. Donation for Local Charity to be presented by the Group.

 • Afternoon: Return to the hotel for relaxation.  

• Evening: Dinner followed by Accra’s nightlife.

Morning: After Breakfast visit the W.E.B. Du Bois Center. The W. E. B. Du Bois Memorial Centre for Pan-African Culture is the former home and final resting place of American-born socialist, author, and civil rights activist, William Edward Burghardt Du Bois, who became a citizen of Ghana in his later years. Du Bois campaigned for African American rights and was often referred to as the ‘Father of Pan-Africanism’.  The center, on the outskirts of Accra, was where Du Bois and his wife lived for the last few years of his life and is where they are now both buried. Along with the couple’s mausoleum, the site features his personal library, as well as a museum with a number of Du Bois’ personal belongings on display. Surrounding the mausoleum is a restaurant, an amphitheater and a research institute dedicated to Pan-African history.  

 • Midday: Explore the National Museum of Ghana. The National Museum of Ghana is a cultural institution that showcases the history and heritage of Ghana and other African countries. It is located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana, and it was opened in 1957 as part of the independence celebrations. The museum has three main sections: archaeology, ethnography, and art. The archaeology section displays objects from the Stone Age to the recent past, such as pottery, tools, and jewelry. The ethnography section exhibits items related to the social and cultural life of various Ghanaian and African groups, such as musical instruments, textiles, beads, and masks. The art section features contemporary paintings and sculptures by Ghanaian artists, as well as some ancient bronze heads from Nigeria and carvings from Congo. The museum aims to preserve and promote the diverse and rich legacy of Africa.  

• Afternoon: Experience Makola Market. Makola Market is a famous marketplace and shopping district in the center of Accra, the capital of Ghana. It sells a wide variety of products, from car parts to land snails, in the market and its surrounding streets. It is dominated by women traders and is one of the nation's most important social and cultural institutions. Makola Market was established in 1924 and was destroyed in 1979 by the Rawlings government but was later rebuilt. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the local culture and cuisine.   

• Late Evening: Dinner at a renowned restaurant, followed by nightlife at local venues

• Morning: After breakfast visit Independence Square and the Black Star Gate. Independence Square, also known as Black Star Square, is a public square in Accra, Ghana, that commemorates the country's independence from British colonial rule in 1957. The square is bordered by the Accra Sports Stadium and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, and contains three monuments: the Independence Arch, the Black Star Gate, and the Liberation Day Monument. The square hosts the annual independence celebrations as well as other national events and parades. It is one of the largest city squares in the world and a symbol of Ghana's freedom and justice.   

 • Midday: Explore the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and Memorial Park. The Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and Memorial Park is a historical and cultural site in Accra, Ghana, that honors the life and legacy of the country's first president and pan-Africanist leader, Kwame Nkrumah. The park covers an area of five acres and features a mausoleum, a museum, a library, a fountain, and a statue of Nkrumah. The mausoleum is the final resting place of Nkrumah and his wife, Fathia Nkrumah. It is designed to resemble an upside-down sword, which symbolizes peace in Akan culture. The museum displays various artifacts and photographs related to Nkrumah's personal and political life, as well as Ghana's independence struggle. The park was established in 1992 and underwent a major renovation in 2023. It is one of the most visited attractions in Ghana, attracting about 98,000 visitors annually who come to pay tribute to Nkrumah and learn about his vision for Africa. 

• Afternoon: Tour Jamestown’s historical district. Jamestown is a historic district in Accra, the capital of Ghana. It emerged as a community around the 17th century British James Fort on the Gulf of Guinea coast. It is one of the oldest and most vibrant areas of the city, known for its fishing industry, colonial architecture, boxing culture and street art festival. Jamestown is also home to the Tabom people, descendants of Afro-Brazilian returnees who settled in Ghana in the 19th century. Jamestown offers a rich and diverse experience for visitors who want to explore the history, culture and creativity of Accra.   The Group will have Lunch at a local restaurant   Return to Hotel to relax and refresh prior to scheduled Dinner event.   

 • Evening: Live jazz and dinner at +233 Jazz Bar & Grill. 33 Jazz Bar & Grill is a popular venue for live music and dining in Accra, Ghana. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from local specialties to international cuisines, and a full bar with cocktails, wines and beers. The jazz bar hosts regular performances by talented musicians, both local and foreign, who play a range of genres, such as jazz, blues, soul and afrobeat. The atmosphere is lively and cozy, with comfortable seating and a spacious dance floor. 233 Jazz Bar & Grill is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends, family or colleagues

Morning: After breakfast the Group will visit Aburi Botanical Gardens. The Aburi Botanical Gardens in Ghana are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The gardens cover an area of about 64 hectares and feature a variety of plants, trees, and flowers from different regions of the world. The gardens were established in 1890 by the British colonial administration as a sanatorium and a research center for tropical botany. Today, the gardens are managed by the Ghanaian Ministry of Food and Agriculture and offer educational and recreational opportunities for visitors. The gardens also host cultural events, festivals, and weddings throughout the year. The Aburi Botanical Gardens are a place of beauty, history, and diversity that showcase the rich flora and fauna of Ghana.  

 • Afternoon: Tour Coco Farm, followed by a visit to nearby waterfalls. Coco Farm is a sustainable cocoa production company based in Ghana. It was founded in 2010 by a group of local farmers who wanted to improve the quality and livelihood of their cocoa crops. Coco Farm uses organic and fair trade practices to produce high-quality cocoa beans that are sold to chocolate manufacturers around the world. Coco Farm also provides training, education and health services to its farmers and their families, as well as supporting community development projects. Coco Farm's mission is to create a positive impact on the environment, the economy and the society of Ghana through cocoa farming.  Lunch and then return to the hotel to refresh and relax.  

• Evening: Dinner at a notable Accra restaurant like Coco Lounge.

A free day on a Culture Seekers Africa group trip is a day where the itinerary is left open for individual members of the group to explore and enjoy the destination at their own pace. Here's a description of what a free day on a group trip may look like:

1. Flexibility: On a free day, group members have the flexibility to choose how they want to spend their time. They can opt to relax at the accommodation, explore the local area, shop, visit attractions, or participate in optional activities.

2. Personal Exploration: Group members can use the free day to explore the destination independently and immerse themselves in the local culture. They can wander through markets, interact with locals, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

3. Rest and Relaxation: A free day provides an opportunity for group members to unwind and recharge. They can take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a spa treatment, lounge by the pool, or simply relax and enjoy the surroundings.

4. Personal Interests: Group members can pursue their personal interests and hobbies on a free day. Whether it's photography, shopping, trying local cuisine, or engaging in outdoor activities, individuals have the freedom to tailor their day to their preferences.

5. Group Bonding: While group members have the freedom to explore independently on a free day, they can also come together for group activities or meals. This time allows for socializing, sharing experiences, and bonding with fellow travelers.

6. Optional Excursions: Some group trips offer optional excursions or activities on free days for those who wish to participate. These may include guided tours, adventure activities, cultural experiences, or special events.

Overall, a free day on a Culture Seekers Africa group trip offers a balance of independence and camaraderie, allowing group members to enjoy the destination in their own way while still benefiting from the support and companionship of traveling with a group.

A free day on a Culture Seekers Africa group trip is a day where the itinerary is left open for individual members of the group to explore and enjoy the destination at their own pace. Here's a description of what a free day on a group trip may look like:

1. Flexibility: On a free day, group members have the flexibility to choose how they 

want to spend their time. They can opt to relax at the accommodation, explore the local area, shop, visit attractions, or participate in optional activities.

2. Personal Exploration: Group members can use the free day to explore the destination independently and immerse themselves in the local culture. They can wander through markets, interact with locals, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

3. Rest and Relaxation: A free day provides an opportunity for group members to unwind and recharge. They can take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a spa treatment, lounge by the pool, or simply relax and enjoy the surroundings.

4. Personal Interests: Group members can pursue their personal interests and hobbies on a free day. Whether it's photography, shopping, trying local cuisine, or engaging in outdoor activities, individuals have the freedom to tailor their day to their preferences.

5. Group Bonding: While group members have the freedom to explore independently on a free day, they can also come together for group activities or meals. This time allows for socializing, sharing experiences, and bonding with fellow travelers.

6. Optional Excursions: Some group trips offer optional excursions or activities on free days for those who wish to participate. These may include guided tours, adventure activities, cultural experiences, or special events.

Overall, a free day on a Culture Seekers Africa group trip offers a balance of independence and camaraderie, allowing group members to enjoy the destination in their own way while still benefiting from the support and companionship of traveling with a group.

Morning to Afternoon: Explore Labadi and Laboma beaches, and possibly a beach club like Bojo Beach Club. Laboma and Labadi Beach are two prominent locations in Accra, Ghana, known for their vibrant atmospheres and cultural significance. Labadi Beach, often referred to as "La Pleasure Beach," is renowned for its lively beachfront, offering a mix of music, local food, and performances, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Laboma Beach, on the other hand, is celebrated for its spacious and serene environment, providing a more laid-back experience with similar amenities. Both beaches offer unique experiences, showcasing Ghana's rich coastal culture and hospitality.

• Evening to Night: Attend NYE fireworks and celebrations at Labadi Beach or Sandbox Beach Club. Accra's beach club scene, highlighted by spots like Sandbox Beach Club, offers a blend of relaxation, entertainment, and cultural experiences along the Atlantic Ocean. These clubs provide luxurious amenities, vibrant nightlife with live music, and opportunities for socializing, catering to diverse preferences and occasions. Accra's beach clubs are a testament to the city's lively coastal lifestyle, making them a must-visit for a genuine taste of Ghana's hospitality and scenic beauty.

Morning to Afternoon: Last-minute shopping at Accra Mall, Osu’s Oxford Street, or the Arts Centre for National Culture.   

• Afternoon: Packing and preparation for departure or the next leg of the journey.  

 • Evening: Group farewell dinner at a premier restaurant, such as Santoku or The Gold Coast Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

Option 1 - Departure: • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, savoring your final moments in Accra.   

• Before Departure: Use any remaining time for relaxation at the hotel, a stroll in a nearby area, or a quick visit to a local café.   

• Departure: Check out of your hotel and transfer to Kotoka International Airport for your flight home. Reflect on the rich experiences and memories made during your stay in Ghana.

Adding another country to your trip to Ghana on a budget involves considering destinations with lower travel costs and proximity to minimize transportation expenses. Here are five countries that are generally considered more affordable and are relatively close to Ghana, making them potential options for a cost-effective addition to your trip:

1. *Togo*: Directly east of Ghana, Togo is known for its affordable living costs, vibrant markets, and beautiful landscapes, including beaches and the UNESCO-listed Koutammakou landscape.

2. *Benin*: East of Togo, Benin offers rich cultural experiences, including the historic city of Ouidah, a center of Voodoo culture, at relatively low costs.

3. *Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)*: West of Ghana, it is known for its diverse culture, beaches, and cocoa plantations. The cost of travel and accommodation can be quite reasonable.

4. *Burkina Faso*: North of Ghana, it's a landlocked country known for its wildlife parks and cultural festivals. The cost of living and travel here is generally low, making it an affordable destination.

5. *Senegal*: Although farther away on the northwest coast of Africa, Senegal is known for its cost-effective travel options, vibrant culture, historic sites, and beautiful beaches, especially in areas like Dakar and Saint-Louis.

These countries offer a mix of cultural experiences, natural landscapes, and historical sites, all while being relatively affordable to travel to and within, especially when considering transportation, accommodation, and daily expenses.